The ChildFund Alliance at Work in Thailand

While in Thailand for a workshop at our regional office in Bangkok, I visited several program areas run by our ChildFund Alliance partner, CCF Foundation in Thailand.

ChildFund Alliance is a group of 12 global, developmental child-sponsorship organizations that implement lasting and meaningful changes in the lives of impoverished children and families worldwide. ChildFund Alliance assures the highest standards in program work, governance, fundraising and financial management.

Accompanying me on the visit were Thawee Suphophark from CCF Foundation in Thailand and Tutiya Buabuttra from our Asia regional office. We travelled to Sa Kaeo Province, located in the east of Thailand along the border with Cambodia. This area is known for some spectacular scenery and natural beauty (plus the annual Cantaloupe Day held every April!). Yet, it is also a region that suffers from high unemployment and poverty rates.

Thai children sponsored through ChildFund International

The visit was a great opportunity to see firsthand how collaboration allows Alliance members to share methods, expertise and fundraising resources to benefit more children around the world.

My visit happened to coincide with a major national holiday in Thailand, the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Children around the country were performing in her honor, and I watched a traditional dance performance at one of the schools. The preservation of traditional arts, dance and handicrafts is an important part of the education in these schools.

A traditional dance performance

Also of note is the patronage of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the second daughter of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. Her support for CCF Foundation in Thailand is certainly part of a special relationship. The Princess is an accomplished musician. She also is often referred to as the “Princess of Information Technology,” due to her strong interest and efforts to apply science and technology to enhance the development of the country.

During my tour of the facilities, I found engaged teachers and students, refurbished classrooms with new supplies and safe, comfortable surroundings. The laughs and smiles of the children combined with their focus and attention to learning made a positive impression.

A refurbished classroom

Continuing to build this relationship with Thailand through the ChildFund Alliance will ensure more programs to help children grow and thrive.

More on Thailand
Population: 65 million
ChildFund beneficiaries: More than 686,000 children and families
Did You Know?: Thailand’s southern peninsula, between the Andaman Sea and the South China Sea, offers safari expeditions on foot, by elephant and in canoes.